We develop a macroeconomic model in which the government does not guarantee to repay debt. We ask whether movements in the price of government bonds can be rationalized by lenders' unwillingness to fully roll over debt when the outstanding level of debt exceeds the government's repayment capacity. Investors do not support a Ponzi game in this case, but ration credit supply, thus forcing default at an endogenously determined fractional repayment rate. Interest rates on government bonds reflect expectations of this event. Numerical results show that default premia can emerge at moderately high debt-to-GDP ratios where even small changes in fundamentals lead to steeply rising interest rates. The behavior of risk premia broadly accords with recent observations for several European countries that experienced a worsening of fundamental fiscal conditions.


Preface. About the Authors. 1 Molecular Chemistry and Nanosciences. 1.1 Introduction. 1.2 Scope and Origin of Nanosciences: The 'Top-Down' and 'Bottom-Up' Approaches. 1.3 Chemical Mutation: From an Exploratory to a Creative Science. 1.4 Carbon and Ceramic Fibers: The Nanomaterial 'Ancestors'. 1.5 Conclusions. References. 2 Nano-Objects. 2.1 Introduction. 2.2 Presentation of Nano-Objects. 2.3 Synthesis of Nano-Objects. 2.4 The Nano-Object: Entry into Nanosciences. References. 3 Introduction to Material Chemistry. 3.1 General Remarks. 3.2 Inorganic Materials: Crystals and Glasses. 3.3 Thermodynamically Controlled Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Materials. 3.4 Ceramic Materials Obtained from Organometallic Polymers: Ceramics with Interpenetrating Networks. 3.5 Inorganic Polymer Materials (Sol-Gel Process). 3.6 Inorganic Polymerization and Molecular Chemistry. 3.7 Silica and Molecular Chemistry: A Dream Team. 4 From Nano-Object to Nanomaterial. 4.1 The Different Types of Nanomaterials. 4.2 Inorganic Polymerization: A Major Route to Nanomaterials. 4.3 Nanocomposite Materials. 4.4 Grafted Materials. 4.5 Selective Separation. 4.6 Materials Obtained by Polycondensation of Monosubstituted Trialkoxysilanes. 4.7 Multistage Syntheses - Cascade Reactions. References. 5 Nanostructured Materials. 5.1 General Remarks. 5.2 Synthesis of Hybrid Nanomaterials. 5.3 Nanostructured Hybrid Materials. 5.4 Kinetic Control of the Texture of Nanostructured Hybrid Materials. 5.5 Supramolecular Self-Organization Induced by Hydrogen Bonds. 5.6 Supramolecular Self-Organization Induced by Weak van der Waals Type Bonds. 5.7 Lamellar Materials. 5.8 Prospects. 5.9 Some Possible Developments. References. 6 Chemistry Leading to Interactive Nanomaterials. 6.1 Introduction. 6.2 Smart Materials. 6.3 The Route to Interactive Materials - Definitions. 6.4 Mesoporous Materials. 6.5 Functionalization of the Pores. 6.6 Functionalization of the Framework. 6.7 Importance of Functionalization and of Weight Analyses. 6.8 On the Way to Interactive Nanomaterials. 6.9 Preparation of New Matrices. 6.10 On the Way to Biological Applications. 6.11 Conclusions. References. 7 Prospects and Stakes. 7.1 General Remarks. 7.2 Predictable Developments. References. Index.


String theory on ${\rm AdS}_3 \times {\rm S}^3 \times {\rm S}^3 \times {\rm S}^1$ with pure NS-NS flux and minimal flux through one of the two ${\rm S}^3$'s is studied from a world-sheet perspective. It is shown that the spacetime spectrum, as well as the algebra of spectrum generating operators, matches precisely that of the symmetric orbifold of ${\rm S}^3\times \mathrm{S}^1$ in the large $N$ limit. This gives strong support for the proposal that these two descriptions are exactly dual to one another.


On line analytical processing (OLAP) is an essential element of decision-support systems. OLAP tools provide insights and understanding needed for improved decision making. However, the answers to OLAP queries can be biased and lead to perplexing and incorrect insights. In this paper, we propose HypDB, a system to detect, explain, and to resolve bias in decision-support queries. We give a simple definition of a \emph{biased query}, which performs a set of independence tests on the data to detect bias. We propose a novel technique that gives explanations for bias, thus assisting an analyst in understanding what goes on. Additionally, we develop an automated method for rewriting a biased query into an unbiased query, which shows what the analyst intended to examine. In a thorough evaluation on several real datasets we show both the quality and the performance of our techniques, including the completely automatic discovery of the revolutionary insights from a famous 1973 discrimination case.


Purpose: Main aim of the present study was to test and show the dissolution of coatings onto ti6Al4V pedicle screws by both in vitro and in vivo analysis. Methods: Hydroxyapatite (HA) was coated on ti6Al4V by electrophoretic deposition (EPd). the dissolution of the coatings was tested in vitro. the coating was characterized before and after implantation via pull-out tests, X-ray diffraction (Xrd) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. the coating materials were immersed in a simulated body fluid (SBF) from 1 day to 6 weeks, in vitro, and the elemental analysis were undertaken in a calf spine, in vivo. Fourteen coated (7) and uncoated (7) ti6Al4V pedicle screws were implanted in a calf spine for 12 weeks and the elemental concentration was analyzed using the wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WdXrF) technique. Results: the analysis of elemental concentrations by WdXrF are presented and 97% of the dissolved elements were determined as ca, P, ti, o and 3% of K, na, Fe, ni, Zn, Mg, S in total. the solubility of the coating materials increased with increasing immersion time and, interestingly, it increased substantially for reasonably longer times, for example, 6 weeks. Conclusions: through the in vivo experiments, on the HA coated and uncoated pedicle screws implanted on a calf vertebra, the elemental concentrations by WdXrF analysis showed the ca(%) around the pedicle screws increased by 30% after reimplantation process. the results may lead us to reconsider such ceramic coatings to test in vitro and/or in vivo for longer periods before clinical applications. (Journal of Applied Biomaterials & Biomechanics 2010; 8: 33-41)


Varying-coe(cid:14)cient models are a useful extension of the classical linear models. The appeal of these models is that the coe(cid:14)cient functions can easily be estimated via a simplelocal regression. This yields a simple one-step estimation procedure. We show that such a one-step method can not be optimal when di(cid:11)erent coe(cid:14)cient functions admit di(cid:11)erent degrees of smoothness. This drawback can be repaired by using our proposed two-step estimation procedure. The asymptotic mean-squared errors for the two-step procedure is obtained and is shown to achieve the optimal rate of convergence. A few simulation studies show that the gain by the two-step procedure can be quite substantial. The methodology is illustrated by an application to an environmental dataset.


Under the background of economic globalization, human creativity and imagination are key resources in a world dominated by technological innovations. Creative talents have become the pressing needs of the country. Promoting children's creativity has also been one of the research interests in school education. This thesis aims to research the relationship between Drama in Education and the cultivation of children's creativity and explore the feasibility of promoting children's creativity through DIE in English teaching. The study employs a qualitative method utilizing classroom observation method and interview method to examine the effectiveness of children's creativity promotion in the practical English DIE class. The findings show that the main elements of drama in education are consistent with theories proposed by some of today's best-known scholars in the area of creativity studies and the use of DIE for English teaching has helped stimulate children's creativity. It is hoped that the findings of this thesis will have a significance in promoting children's creativity through DIE and provide some inspiration for teachers and researchers.


When and how do entrepreneurs sell their inventions? To address this issue, we develop an endogenous entry-sale asymmetric information oligopoly model. We show that lowquality inventions are sold directly or used for own entry. Inventors who sell post-entry use entry to credibly reveal information on quality. Incumbents are then willing to pay high prices for high-quality inventions to preempt rivals from obtaining them. Using Swedish data on patents granted to small firms and individuals, we find evidence that high-quality inventions are sold under preemptive bidding competition, post entry.


Silica wet gels were prepared from water glass (29 wt.% SiO2) by using Amberlite as a ion exchange resin. After washing in distilled water, the wet gels were further aged in a solution of TEOS/EtOH to strengthen the 3-dimensional network structure. With the increasing TEOS content in aging solution, BET surface area and porosity of the ambient dried silica aerogel were decreased, and the average pore diameter was decreased from 30nm to 10nm. Also, higher density and compressive strength were obtained in case of higher TEOS content. This is due to the precipitation of SiO2 nano particle by TEOS. Hence, TEOS addition plays an important role in both strengthening and increasing stiffness of silica wet gel network. By adding 30 vol.% TEOS, a crack-free monolithic silica aerogel tiles were obtained and its density, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity were shown 0.232 g/cm3, 7.3 MPa, and 0.029 W/mK, respectively.


Background: Inaccuracy of the reported administrative immunization data and the corresponding coverage has been a concern for stakeholders and users of immunization data. Apart from coverage estimation, the number of doses administered for Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) vaccine is primarily used as a baseline for computing immunization indicators like dropout rate.Objectives: To estimate BCG coverage and determine the accuracy of the reported number of doses administered to children less than one year for the calendar year 2018.Methods: A quantitative descriptive cross- sectional study was conducted at 23 selected health facilities in Wanging'ombe district. Abstraction forms were used to collect data on the number of doses administered to children less than one year, number of reported doses in monthly summary forms and live births for the calendar year 2018. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 software.Results: The estimated coverage was 177%. Of the 15 health facilities that were assessed for accuracy, seven had accurate data, five over reported and three under reported.Conclusion: The overall estimated coverage was unusually high. Though, the reported number of doses administered can be relied for decision making. Establishing and strengthening countrywide Civil Registration and Vital Statistics system (CVRS) may be a sustainable solution to the outstanding challenges in denominators. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) with clear instructions for recording and reporting should be emphasized.Keywords: BCG, coverage, data quality, immunization, Tanzania


Abstract. The continuous development of sensors, methods and technologies in the modern digital photogrammetry requires testing the quality and accuracy of software, processing workflow and products. The paper presents a new test field for performance analysis of software processing and accuracy assessment of photogrammetric 2D and 3D data collection, mapping, 3D object reconstruction and modeling based on low-altitude imagery with particular regard to unmanned aerial vehicles imagery. The first experiment was carried out using images captured by Phase One iXU-RS 1000 medium format aerial digital camera and Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) point cloud acquired by RIEGL LMS-Q680i airborne laser scanner. The process of complex digital processing was performed in Agisoft Metashape packages. The subblock of 169 images and 16 signalized ground points measured by Global Navigation Satellite Systems in the WGS 84 coordinate system using the Real-Time Network method were adopted in the preliminary investigations. The root mean square error RMSEXYZ on check points in the bundle block adjustment was equal to 0.032 m. Vertical deviations between digital elevation model and LiDAR point clouds belong to the range from −0.020 m to 0.020 m which is related to RIEGL LMS-Q680i accuracy and precision. Georeferenced orthomosaic was generated with ground sampling distance (GSD) equal to 0.020 m, which was the same as the GSD of input images. The high accuracy of obtained processing results is related to accuracy of initial data, and it proves the usefulness of Kortowo test field.


Introduction The evidence for vertical transmission of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is not well established. Therefore, the objective of this review is to summarize emerging evidence on the vertical transmission of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2. Methods We conducted a systematic search in PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and CENTRAL. Likewise, a search for preprint publications was conducted using MedRxiv and Research Square. Studies that addressed vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 (concept) among pregnant women infected by Covid-19 (population) in any setting (community, hospital, or home) in any country or context were considered for inclusion. Any types of studies or reports published between December 2019 and September 2020 addressing the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on pregnant women and their newborn babies were included. Studies were screened for eligibility against the inclusion criteria for the review by two reviewers. Results We identified 51 studies reporting 336 newborns screened for COVID-19. From the 336 newborns screened for COVID-19, only 15 (4.4%) were positive for throat swab RT-PCR. All neonates with positive throat swab RT-PCR were delivered by cesarean section. Among neonates with throat swab SARS-CoV-2 positive only five (33.3%) had concomitant placenta, amniotic fluid, and cord blood samples tested, of which only one amniotic fluid sample is positive for RT PCR. Five neonates had elevated IgG and IgM but without intrauterine tissue tested. Four neonates had chest imaging suggestive of COVID-19 pneumonia. Conclusion Currently there is not enough evidence on vertical virologic transmission of COVID-19 infection during the third trimester of pregnancy. Additionally, there is no evidence to support cesarean delivery, abstaining from breast feeding nor mother and infant separation. Further research involving an adequate sample size of breast milk, placenta, amniotic fluid, and cord blood to ascertain the possibility of vertical transmission and breast milk transfer is needed.


High-Speed Centrifugal Compaction Process (HCP) is a wet compacting method, in which powders are compacted under a huge centrifugal force. The HCP was well applied to small alumina specimens, but the compact easily cracked when we applied the HCP to other materials. In the present study we clarify the mechanism that introduces such cracks. Firstly, we observed HCP alumina, dyeing with iron oxide powder or by the Immersion Liquid Technique, and found that there was a kind of flow pattern generated during the HCP. A simple simulation also revealed that the formation of such a flow pattern was related to the Colioli's force in the centrifugal field, and therefore was hard to suppress. Nonetheless, the actual introduction of inhomogeneity along the flow was largely affected by another factor. Die releasing oil was dragged in the flows and formed low density regions along the flow.


Two studies investigated people's motivations for testing, and the influence of awareness of test inaccuracies, on their intentions to undergo cancer screening tests. Study 1 used a between-subjects design in which participants stated their intentions regarding one of several screening tests with equal accuracy but with either false negative, false positive, or unspecified errors. Study 2 used a within-subjects design in which participants indicated their intentions regarding each of those screening tests. In Study 1, intentions for testing were relatively high, affected by instrumental (illness prevention) motivations, and unaffected by type of error acknowledged. Individuals with higher emotional (reassurance seeking) motivations had lower intentions to uptake tests with false positive errors. In Study 2, intentions to uptake all tests were lower compared to Study 1, and were affected by emotional motivations. Participants preferred a test with unspecified errors over tests with specified errors, and, when forced to choose, preferred tests with false negative over false positive errors. Findings are discussed in relation to Error Management Theory and Self-Regulation Theory, emphasising the need to recognise motivations, affect, and framing as important factors in informed screening decisions.


We study finite-sum nonconvex optimization problems, where the objective function is an average of $n$ nonconvex functions. We propose a new stochastic gradient descent algorithm based on nested variance reduction. Compared with conventional stochastic variance reduced gradient (SVRG) algorithm that uses two reference points to construct a semi-stochastic gradient with diminishing variance in each epoch, our algorithm uses $K+1$ nested reference points to build an semi-stochastic gradient to further reduce its variance in each epoch. For smooth functions, the proposed algorithm converges to an approximate first order stationary point (i.e., $\|\nabla F(\xb)\|_2\leq \epsilon$) within $\tO(n\land \epsilon^{-2}+\epsilon^{-3}\land n^{1/2}\epsilon^{-2})$\footnote{$\tO(\cdot)$ hides the logarithmic factors} number of stochastic gradient evaluations, where $n$ is the number of component functions, and $\epsilon$ is the optimization error. This improves the best known gradient complexity of SVRG $O(n+n^{2/3}\epsilon^{-2})$ and the best gradient complexity of SCSG $O(\epsilon^{-5/3}\land n^{2/3}\epsilon^{-2})$. For gradient dominated functions, our algorithm achieves $\tO(n\land \tau\epsilon^{-1}+\tau\cdot (n^{1/2}\land (\tau\epsilon^{-1})^{1/2})$ gradient complexity, which again beats the existing best gradient complexity $\tO(n\land \tau\epsilon^{-1}+\tau\cdot (n^{1/2}\land (\tau\epsilon^{-1})^{2/3})$ achieved by SCSG. Thorough experimental results on different nonconvex optimization problems back up our theory.


The aim of the present study is to compare two different acoustic analogies applied to time-resolved particle image velocimetry (PIV) data for the prediction of the acoustic far-field generated by the flow over a rectangular cavity. We consider the model problem of sound radiating from an open, two-dimensional, shallow cavity with an aspect ratio of 2 at a Reynolds number of 3.0 × 104 (based on the cavity length). The study is carried out by simultaneous high-speed two-dimensional PIV and sound measurements. The instantaneous flow field is obtained from the PIV measurements. The emitted sound is then calculated using Curle's analogy and Vortex Sound Theory. To our knowledge, Vortex Sound Theory is used here for the first time in combination with time-resolved PIV data. The acoustic analogies are derived through rather different pathways, and the mathematical schemes used to solve the equations are sensitive in a different way to factors such as data resolution, noise level, and complexity of the geometry. Both methods indicate that the trailing edge of the cavity is the main sound source. The predictions of the acoustic field obtained by applying the two methods are analyzed and compared with the measured sound. For the presented case, the results show that both analogies estimate the overall sound pressure level quite well and that they give very similar results, both in total intensity and in the spectral distribution of the emitted sound.


The goal of this dissertation is to determine the best way to train a statistical machine translation system. I first develop a state-of-the-art machine translation system called Phrasal and then use it to examine a wide variety of potential learning algorithms and optimization criteria and arrive at two very surprising results. First, despite the strong intuitive appeal of more recent evaluation metrics, training to these metrics is no better than the older traditional approach of training to BLEU. Second, the most widely used learning algorithm for training machine translation systems, called minimum error rate training (MERT), works no better than standard machine learning algorithms such as log-linear models. This result demonstrates that machine translation does not require using a special purpose learning algorithm, but rather can be approached in a manner similar to other natural language processing and machine learning tasks. These results have a number of important implications. Contrary to existing beliefs, work on improving machine translation evaluation metrics and then training to the improved metrics will not in itself result in improved translation systems. Even more significantly, the widespread usage of MERT has limited the sort of models that can be used for machine translation, as it does not scale well to large numbers of features. If it is not necessary to use MERT to train competitive systems, machine translation can be treated similarly to any other natural language processing task with models that include arbitrarily large feature sets.


High glycine-tyrosine proteins (HGTPs), also known as keratin-associated proteins (KAPs), play a key role in the major structures and mechanical properties of wool fiber. Sheep HGTPs consist of three multigene families: KAP6, KAP7, and KAP8 genes. Polymorphisms of these three genes have been proposed to have important effects on wool fiber traits. The aim of the present study was to identify polymorphisms of the KAP6, KAP7, and KAP8 genes in four sheep breeds, including Chinese Merino superfine wool sheep, Hu sheep, a Merino x Hu crossed breed, and Romney sheep. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) product direct sequencing, PCR-single-strand conformation polymorphism, and cloned sequencing methods were used to find genetic variation and identify polymorphisms in these genes. The Mutation Surveyor v3.97 software was used to analyze the sequences. These methods revealed six different sequences of the KAP6 gene, two different sequences of the KAP7 gene, and five different sequences of the KAP8 gene. Accordingly, three (with frequencies>1%) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the KAP6 gene, one SNP of the KAP7 gene, and five SNPs of the KAP8 gene were detected. Interestingly, some of these sequences were present in only certain sheep breeds, thereby suggesting that these special allele sequences could be used as candidate genes of wool characteristics in further studies.


It must always remain an open question whether mystical states may not possibly be superior points of view, windows through which the mind looks out upon a more extensive and inclusive world. -William James, Varieties of Religious Experience In recent articles on DeLillo's work, John A. McClure and Paul Maltby rightly emphasize the spiritual and sublime quality of his fiction. McClure is intrigued by DeLillo's "resacralization" or reenchantment of the contemporary world (144) and Maltby connects DeLillo to the Romantic "visionary moment" (258). These critical revisions are helpful in countering estimations of DeLillo as only a deconstructive postmodernist, dedicated only to asserting self-reflexive skeptical relativism and nihilistic despair.1 These interpretations, however, do not go far enough in investigating the specific spiritual influences in DeLillo's work. In order to find out exactly how DeLillo is reenchanting our world we need to follow DeLillo back in time to investigate the ancient traditions of spiritual mysticism from which he eclectically draws. MYSTICISM Before delving into Ratner's Star, we need to define mysticism. Jess Byron Hollenback's recent book on comparative mysticism offers an exciting paradigm for examining this novel (and contemporary fiction in general). Hollenback argues that whatever form it takes, the mystical experience is grounded in concentrated recollection or contemplation: The inner silence that mystics cultivate cannot develop unless the individual first learns how to tightly focus his or her attention so that the mind and imagination no longer wander aimlessly from one object, thought, or feeling state to another. When this mental background noise ceases as a consequence of the mystic's successful endeavors to focus his or her attention, a dramatic change in the mystic's mode of consciousness takes place, a metamorphosis that is just as radical (sometimes even more so) as that transformation that occurs during the shift from the waking state of awareness to the dream state. This dramatic metamorphosis of the waking consciousness caused by simultaneously focusing the attention and quieting the mind, together with the responses in both deed and thought that it generates, is what I call 'mysticism.' (xi) Despite profound differences in mystical experiences based on religio-historical context, all mystical experiences, including spiritual transcendence and paranormal experiences, have the recollective act in common; such an act helps to empower the mind to become "an organ of veridical perception and means of supernormal locomotion" (Hollenback 21). In other words, in this heightened trance state the imagination can function as an expanded organ of perception and knowledge across normal limits of time and space in ways radically different than mere rational thought or mere dreaming. This state includes, "many forms of supernormal perception such as telepathic sensitivity, clairvoyance, and the ability to see auras, and certain supernormal powers of action such as out-of-body travels and psychokinesis . . ." (Hollenback 21). When empowered, the human faculties can "exceed their usual limitations, function, and capacities in dramatic fashion" (Hollenback x). By tracing all these experiences back to the same moment of recollection and trance, Hollenback's study improves on earlier studies of mysticism which have separated "highly abstracted states of divine union or yogic absorption where all images, forms, and earthly passions fall away" (Hollenback x) from visionary forms of mysticism which include apparitions, supernormal enhancement of the senses, and vivid sensory images (Hollenback ix). In preliterate tribal religious traditions, for example, such visionary experiences are highly valued. Hollenback provocatively counters ethnocentric bias in his comparative study by discussing Australian aborigine spirit-flights, shamanism, Eskimo vision-quests, mediumship, and astral projection alongside Catholic, Buddhist, and Hindu accounts of world-negating transcendence and divine union. …


Introduction Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) is an emerging disease marker in rheumatic diseases. This is a meta-analysis aimed at systematically reviewing association between serum MMP-3 levels and systematic lupus erythematosus (SLE) activity, which sought to raise interest in MMP-3 as a putative biomarker. Methods We conducted a meta-analysis of serum MMP-3 levels in patients with SLE and controls. We performed a PubMed search, EMBASE search, and forward search of the retrieved articles published until Oct. 1, 2018. In addition to this, we included data from a case-control study on a national pediatric SLE cohort, in which serum MMP-3 levels were measured in 11 SLE patients and 9 controls (unpublished). Subgroup analyses based on gender and disease activity were performed. Results A total of 662 cases and 771 controls including 651 patients and 762 controls from 11 publications were studied. We observed significantly higher MMP-3 levels in SLE patients compared to healthy controls (P < 0.001, Hedges' g: 2.104, 95% CI 1.426-2.782). In subgroup analyses, we found a significant elevation of MMP-3 in the patients with nephritis compared to those without (P = 0.006, Hedges' g: 0.611, 95% CI 0.611-1.704). This finding was consistent between patients with persistent proteinuria and those without (P = 0.023, Hedges' g: 1.535, 95% CI 0.207-2.862). Meta-analysis showed no association between MMP-3 levels and gender or anti-double strand DNA antibody titer. Conclusions Our meta-analysis demonstrated significantly higher MMP-3 levels in SLE patients than in controls and in patients with renal involvement than in those without.


The aim of this work is the development of a thermodynamically consistent fully coupled thermo‐viscoplastic material model for metals. The model is based on a split of the free energy into a thermo‐elastic, a thermo‐plastic and a purely thermal part and covers nonlinear cold‐work hardening and thermal softening. Nonlinear temperature dependent effects are accounted for the elastic moduli, the plastic hardening moduli, the thermal expansion, the heat capacity and the heat conductivity. Furthermore, strain rate‐dependency of the current yield stress is realized using a temperature dependent nonlinear Perzyna‐type viscoplastic model based on an associative flow rule. The model and its parameters are fitted against experimental data for case hardening steel 16MnCr5 (1.7131).


ABSTRACT Routine use of QFL, QpLsmLvm, and LmLsLv plate-tectonic provenance diagrams has led to the recognition of error populations. For these sandstones, the interpretation of tectonic setting based on data exclusive of petrography does not coincide with the interpretation of tectonic setting based on their location on compositional diagrams. The anomalous sandstones can be separated into at least four categories: i) sandstones deposited during the transition between tectonic regimes may be derived, in part, from relict source rocks; ii) the relative enrichment of sandstones in detrital quartz by weathering and/or depositional reworking may lead to an inaccurate interpretation of tectonic setting from compositional data; iii) sandstones deposited in tectonic settings as yet unrepresented on he provenance diagrams may plot between the provenance fields or overlap existing fields; iv) the role of detrital carbonate rock fragments directly affects the location of data points on provenance diagrams, and is an unresolved problem. The first two categories represent permanent problems in the use of sandstone composition as an indicator of plate-tectonic setting, whereas the last two may only be temporary problems that can be solved by more data and a consensus on determining detrital modes. Recognition of anomalous sandstones in the rock record will reduce the probability of erroneous interpretations of tectonic setting and enhance the use of sandstone petrology as an indicator of plate-tectonic setting.


Open access (OA) has fundamentally changed how journal articles are read and distributed. In this article the author describes the spectrum of open access from simply free-to-read to full reuse and derivative rights. As an independent society publisher, JBC has crafted journal policies in a way that reflect our professional values in promoting scholarly research while respecting authors' rights to choose their level of openness and control their works.


Small-molecule signaling in nematode dauer formation has emerged as a major model to study chemical communication in development and evolution. Developmental arrest as nonfeeding and stress-resistant dauer larvae represents the major survival and dispersal strategy. Detailed studies in Caenorhabditis elegans and Pristionchus pacificus revealed that small-molecule communication changes rapidly in evolution resulting in extreme structural diversity of small-molecule compounds. In C. elegans, a blend of ascarosides constitutes the dauer pheromone, whereas the P. pacificus dauer pheromone includes additional paratosides and integrates building blocks from diverse primary metabolic pathways. Despite this complexity of small-molecule structures and functions, little is known about the biosynthesis of small molecules in nematodes outside C. elegans Here, we show that the genes encoding enzymes of the peroxisomal β-oxidation pathway involved in small-molecule biosynthesis evolve rapidly, including gene duplications and domain switching. The thiolase daf-22, the most downstream factor in C. elegans peroxisomal β-oxidation, has duplicated in P. pacificus, resulting in Ppa-daf-22.1, which still contains the sterol-carrier-protein (SCP) domain that was lost in C. elegans daf-22, and Ppa-daf-22.2. Using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, we induced mutations in both P. pacificus daf-22 genes and identified an unexpected complexity of functional conservation and divergence. Under well-fed conditions, ascaroside biosynthesis proceeds exclusively via Ppa-daf-22.1 In contrast, starvation conditions induce Ppa-daf-22.2 activity, resulting in the production of a specific subset of ascarosides. Gene expression studies indicate a reciprocal up-regulation of both Ppa-daf-22 genes, which is, however, independent of starvation. Thus, our study reveals an unexpected functional complexity of dauer development and evolution.


Economics
In the U.S., telecommuting is most commonly observed for employees in the highest and lowest income deciles, yet there is little evidence about its benefits. Bloom et al. carried out the first randomized control trial of this management practice and report that performance of at-home workers increased by 13%. They found that Ctrip, a large, China-based travel agency, experienced lower turnover among its call-center workers, who also reported greater job satisfaction. When this program was rolled out to the entire company, some of the at-home employees elected to return to the office, whereas others switched to working from home; this reassortment improved the overall performance gain to 22%.

Quart. J. Econ. 10.1093/qje/qju032 (2014)


We autonomously pour from unknown symmetric containers found in a typical wet laboratory for the development of a robot-assisted, rapid experiment preparation system. The robot estimates the pouring container symmetric geometry, then leverages simulated pours as priors for a given fluid to pour precisely and quickly in a single attempt. The fluid is detected in the transparent receiving container by combining weight and vision. The change of volume in the receiver is a function of the geometry of the pouring container, the pouring angle, and rate. To determine the volumetric flow rate, the profile for maximum containable volume for a given angle is estimated along with the time delay of the fluid exiting the container. A trapezoidal trajectory generation algorithm prescribes the desired volumetric flow rate as a function of the estimation accuracy. A hybrid control strategy is then used to attenuate volumetric error. Three methods are compared for estimating the volume-angle profile, and it is shown that a combination of online system identification and leveraged model priors results in reliable performance. The major contributions of this work are a system capable of pouring quickly and precisely from varying symmetric containers in a single attempt with limited priors, and a novel fluid detection method. This system is implemented on the Rethink Robotics Sawyer and KUKA LBR iiwa manipulators.


The most common way to model business processes is to use a graphical modeling language. The most widespread notation are business process diagrams modeled in the language BPMN. In this paper, we formalize structural patterns that can lead to control flow errors in such graphical models. For expressing such error patterns, we use the visual query language BPMN-Q . By using a query processor, a business process modeler is able to identify possible errors in business process diagrams. Moreover, the erroneous parts of the business process diagram can be highlighted when an instance of an error pattern is found. This way, the modeler gets an easyto-understand feedback in the visual modeling language he or she is familiar with.


Immunoblotting assays using commercial antibodies were established to investigate the unexpected persistence of the immunoactive Cry1Ab protein in the bovine gastrointestinal tract (GIT) previously suggested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Samples of two different feeding experiments in cattle were analyzed with both ELISA and immunoblotting methods. Whereas results obtained by ELISA suggested that the concentration of the Cry1Ab protein increased during the GIT passage, the immunoblotting assays revealed a significant degradation of the protein in the bovine GIT. Samples showing a positive signal in the ELISA consisted of fragmented Cry1Ab protein of approximately 17 and 34 kDa size. Two independent sets of gastrointestinal samples revealed the apparent discrepancy between the results obtained by ELISA and immunoblotting, suggesting that the antibody used in the ELISA reacts with fragmented yet immunoactive epitopes of the Cry1Ab protein. It was concluded that Cry1Ab protein is degraded during digestion in cattle. To avoid misinterpretation, samples tested positive for Cry1Ab protein by ELISA should be reassessed by another technique.


National governments have been makeing significant attempts to make theirits services and information available on the Internet. However, the success of these efforts depends, to a great extent, on how well the targeted users for such services, citizens in general, make use of them. For this reason, the purpose of the presented study was to identify what factors could affect the citizens' adoption of e-government services, analyzing the case of Romania. According to the UN e-government survey conducted in 2008, Romania comes under mid range countries by utilization of e-government (percent of utilization 37%). Romania's national portal www.e-guvernare.ro aims at progressively making all services and information accessible through the portal. The study is an extension of the Technology Acceptance Model. The proposed model was validated using data collected from 481 citizens. The results provided substantial support for most all proposed hypotheses and showed the significance of the extended constructs.


Until recently, the statistical approach was the main technique in solving the prediction problem. In the framework of static models, the tasks of forecasting, the identification of hidden periodicity in data, analysis of dependencies, risk assessment in decision making, and others are solved. The general disadvantage of statistical models is the complexity of choosing the type of the model and selecting its parameters. Computing intelligence methods, among which artificial neural networks should be considered at first, can serve as alternative to statistical methods. The ability of the neural network to comprehensively process information follows from their ability to generalize and isolate hidden dependencies between input and output data. Significant advantage of neural networks is that they are capable of learning and generalizing the accumulated knowledge. The article proposes a method of neural networks training in solving the problem of prediction of the time series. Most of the predictive tasks of the time series are characterized by high levels of nonlinearity and non-stationary, noisiness, irregular trends, jumps, abnormal emissions. In these conditions, rigid statistical assumptions about the properties of the time series often limit the possibilities of classical forecasting methods. The alternative methods to statistical methods can be the methods of computational intelligence, which include artificial neural networks. The simulation results confirmed that the proposed method of training the neural network can significantly improve the prediction accuracy of the time series.


Lethal and sub-lethal bioassays on Clarias gariepinus were conducted to evaluate the toxicity of tobacco (Nicotiana tobaccum) leaf dust on weight gain and haematological indices of Clarias gariepinus (mean weight 10.5±0.70g) in glass aquaria with aeration system. The concentrations used during the lethal exposure are: 2.00, 1.00, 0.50, 0.25g/l and a control (0.00g/l); while the concentrations of the toxicant used during the 21–days sub-lethal exposure were 0.30, 0.15, 0.10, 0.05g/l and a control (0.00g/l). The 48-h LC50 estimated by probit analysis during acute exposure was found to be 626.0 mg/l. The results obtained from the sub-lethal exposure showed that there was a progressive decrease in weight of fish as the concentration of the toxicant increased. Also, haematological indices indicated that the fish became anaemic and the severity of this condition was directly proportional to the tobacco dust concentrations.
(Journal of Applied Sciences & Environmental Management: 2002 6(2): 37-42)


(Brasilia, Brazil) Abstract Reactivation of a landslide is usually accompanied by microseismic signals emitted from the deforming soil mass. The reproduction of similar signals in a physical model test conducted under control conditions can allow researchers to explore and test such complicated signals to improve the prediction of full-scale failure. The present study investigates the similarity between the slidequakes (microseismicity) naturally emitted from an existing colluvial landslide (Sobradinho, Brazil) in response to rain-falls and the emissions generated by a pullout test of an expander body (EB) pile in tropical soil under controlled conditions. The microseismic signals emitted from both experimental sites (i.e. the landslide and the EB pile test) were recorded and compared. Data were acquired by mini-arrays of four short-period seismometers. For the signal nomenclature, a typological scheme was adopted, in which sonograms/spectral contents of the signals were used. As a result, short duration microseismic signals were observed during the pullout test. In contrast, at the Sobradinho landslide, the testing detected signals of different characteristics whose source mechanisms have remained ambiguous, mainly because of the short duration of the data campaigns. However, at the landslide, propagating events were observed that might be attributed to the energies generated by the river bedload during the heavy rains. The present study offers some insight into the pre-collapse dynamic behavior of unstable slopes in


Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine whether integrating depression treatment into care for type 2 diabetes mellitus among older African Americans improved medication adherence, glycemic control, and depression outcomes. Methods Older African Americans prescribed pharmacotherapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus and depression from physicians at a large primary care practice in west Philadelphia were randomly assigned to an integrated care intervention or usual care. Adherence was assessed at baseline, 2, 4, and 6 weeks using the Medication Event Monitoring System to assess adherence. Outcomes assessed at baseline and 12 weeks included standard laboratory tests to measure glycemic control and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) to assess depression. Results In all, 58 participants aged 50 to 80 years participated. The proportion of participants who had 80% or greater adherence to an oral hypoglycemic (intervention 62.1% vs usual care 24.1%) and an antidepressant (intervention 62.1% vs usual care 10.3%) was greater in the intervention group in comparison with the usual care group at 6 weeks. Participants in the integrated care intervention had lower levels of glycosylated hemoglobin (intervention 6.7% vs usual care 7.9%) and fewer depressive symptoms (CES-D mean scores: intervention 9.6 vs usual care 16.6) compared with participants in the usual care group at 12 weeks. Conclusion A pilot randomized controlled trial integrating type 2 diabetes mellitus treatment and depression was successful in improving outcomes among older African Americans. Integrated interventions may be more feasible and effective in real-world practices with competing demands for limited resources.


The foremost issue that confronts contemporary legal jurisprudence is that of rights and yet paradoxically, modern legal discourse has failed to grasp the normative essence of right. This essay is concerned with one fundamental inquiry of how we can understand rights and the relationship between right and legality. From whence does legality obtain its normative coercive bindingness?A discussion of rights is intrinsically linked to the understanding of law. This is not to circumvent the issue. Rather, it is a starting point and we shall come back to the issue of: what is right? This is a critical question since man is bom in law, must lead a life governed by law and his after life is governed by law. Law is not an invention of the legal theorist. It is given and manifests itself as a regime of moral regulation.


As training samples are not always target-free in space–time processing for airborne radar, the traditional methods usually use the sample covariance matrix (SCM) as the test covariance matrix (TCM) to censor contaminated training samples. However, the SCM cannot represent the property of the cell under test (CUT) accurately, resulting in low selection efficiency. To deal with this problem, this letter proposes a novel training sample selection method based on covariance matrix whitening. Specifically, we utilize the reconstructed subaperture's clutter covariance matrix (RSCCM) of the CUT as the TCM. The RSCCM is only determined by the CUT and can characterize the CUT directly. Then, we use the RSCCM to whiten the subaperture's covariance matrix of the training sample. A criterion for selecting the training samples is derived based on the maximum eigenvalue of the whitened subaperture's covariance matrix, which is related to the energy of the outliers and more stable than the statistic of the generalized inner product method. Simulations are conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed method.


In spite of preventive measures such as Papanicolaou cervical cytological
analysis and, more recently, vaccination against HPV infection, cancer of the
uterine cervix continues to be one of the most frequent causes of mortality
among women worldwide, particularly in developing countries. In this
prospective study, sixty patients with inflammatory Pap smears had a colposcopy
with directed biopsies. The average age of our patients was 42 years. Results
showed that colposcopy is normal in 10% of women. It showed normal
transformations, ectropion, a colpotis and polyp at 8.33%, 21.66%, 13.33% and
5% respectively. It was able to detect changes with Grade I atypical
transformations (28.33%), and Grade II atypical transformations in 13.33% of
cases. The biopsies were objectified dysplasia and carcinoma in 24.13% of cases
with carcinoma in situ, micro
invasive squamous cell carcinoma and invasive carcinoma glandular. Moreover, we
detected HPV-specific antibodies in sera of these patients. Results showed that
six patients (10%) showed a positive reactivity to at least one of the HPV-16
or HPV-18 antigens and sera showed different reactivity to the different
antigens with the following percentages: 5%, 3%, 2%, 3% and 3% for L1 HPV-16,
E6 HPV-16, E7 HPV-16, E6 HPV-18 and E7 HPV-18 respectively. Among patients having positive antibody response, 83.33% were cases of
dysplasia and carcinoma. We concluded that the Pap smear, examination of key
screening for cervical cancer, is a screening test without diagnostic value and
more specifically any inflammatory Pap smear should be considered a positive
test and led to further investigations. Moreover, colposcopy is an exam that is
performed on an outpatient basis; it allows a detailed study of the cervix and
reduces the negative rate of cytology. In addition, early detection of HPV
antibodies could help the follow-up of patients.


THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT of the neurosurgical operative environment is driven principally by concurrent development in science and technology. In the new millennium, these developments are taking on a Jules Verne quality, with the ability to construct and manipulate the human organism and its surroundings at the level of atoms and molecules seemingly at hand. Thus, an examination of currents in technology advancement from the neurosurgical perspective can provide insight into the evolution of the neurosurgical operative environment. In the future, the optimal design solution for the operative environment requirements of specialized neurosurgery may take the form of composites of venues that are currently mutually distinct. Advances in microfabrication technology and laser optical manipulators are expanding the scope and role of robotics, with novel opportunities for bionic integration. Assimilation of biosensor technology into the operative environment promises to provide neurosurgeons of the future with a vastly expanded set of physiological data, which will require concurrent simplification and optimization of analysis and presentation schemes to facilitate practical usefulness. Nanotechnology derivatives are shattering the maximum limits of resolution and magnification allowed by conventional microscopes. Furthermore, quantum computing and molecular electronics promise to greatly enhance computational power, allowing the emerging reality of simulation and virtual neurosurgery for rehearsal and training purposes. Progressive minimalism is evident throughout, leading ultimately to a paradigm shift as the nanoscale is approached. At the interface between the old and new technological paradigms, issues related to integration may dictate the ultimate emergence of the products of the new paradigm. Once initiated, however, history suggests that the process of change will proceed rapidly and dramatically, with the ultimate neurosurgical operative environment of the future being far more complex in functional capacity but strikingly simple in apparent form.


The gibberellins (GAs) are a complex family of diterpenoid compounds, some of which are potent endogenous regulators of plant growth. As part of a feedback control of endogenous GA levels, active GAs negatively regulate the abundance of mRNA transcripts encoding GA biosynthesis enzymes. For example, Arabidopsis GA4 gene transcripts encode GA 3beta-hydroxylase, an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of inactive to active GAs. Here we show that active GAs regulate GA4 transcript abundance in a dose-dependent manner, and that down-regulation of GA4 transcript abundance is effected by GA4 (the product of 3beta-hydroxylation) but not by its immediate precursor GA9 (the substrate). Comparison of several different GA structures showed that GAs active in promoting hypocotyl elongation were also active in regulating GA4 transcript abundance, suggesting that similar GA:receptor and subsequent signal transduction processes control these two responses. It is interesting that these activities were not restricted to 3beta-hydroxylated GAs, being also exhibited by structures that were not 3beta-hydroxylated but that had another electronegative group at C-3. We also show that GA-mediated control of GA4 transcript abundance is disrupted in the GA-response mutants gai and spy-5. These observations define a sensitive homeostatic mechanism whereby plants may regulate their endogenous GA levels.


The history of emotions is a new approach to social history, and this book is the first in English to systematically examine emotions in Colonial Mexico. It is easy to assume that emotions are a given, unchanging aspect of human psychology. But the emotions we feel reflect the times in which we live. People express themselves within the norms and prescriptions particular to their society, their class, their ethnicity, and other factors. The essays collected here chart daily life through the study of sex and marriage, love, lust and jealousy, civic rituals and preaching, gambling and leisure, prayer and penance, and protest and rebellion. The first part of the book deals with how individuals experienced emotions on a personal level. The second group of essays explores the role of the state in guiding and channelling the expression and the objects of emotions.


This thesis describes a hybrid approach to compiler verification. Property-based testing and mechanised proof are combined to support the verification of a supercompiler — a particular source-to-source program optimisation. A careful developer may use formal methods to ensure that their program code is correct to specifications. Poorly constructed compilers (and their associated machinery) can produce object code that does not have the same meaning as the source program. Therefore, to ensure the correctness of the executable program, each component of the compilation pipeline needs to be verified.

Lazy SmallCheck — a property-based testing library — is extended with support for existential qualification, functional values and a technique for displaying partial counterexamples. Lazy SmallCheck is then applied to the efficient generation of test programs for a small first-order functional language, specified using declarative statements of program validity. We extend the technique with several definitions of canonical programs to reduce the test-data space.

A supercompiler is implemented for a core higher-order language, contrasting implementations found in other publications. We also survey the techniques and themes seen in the literature on compiler proof. These surveys inform the development of an abstract verified supercompiler in a dependently-typed language. In this work, we represent correctness properties as types. This abstract model is then adapted to integrate mechanical proof and results of property-based testing to verify a working supercompiler implementation. While more work is required to improve the framework's ease-of-use and the speed of verification, the results show that this approach to hybrid verification is feasible.


In this paper, an approach for IP mobility support with Location Pre-Query (MIP_Q) is put forward for solving the traffic bottleneck and single point error at home network, and also for improving the efficiency and reliability of communication. MIP_Q eliminates the agent of HA (home Agent) by extending the functions of DNS (domain name system) to manage and track the location database of mobile nodes. MIP_Q uses parallel handoff procedures and avoids the triangle routing and tunneling. The cost and handoff delay of MIP_Q by an effective algorithm with MIP and MIP_LR are analyzed and compared. The realization of MIP_Q is also discussed by referring to the widely used wide area cellular mobile networks. The analysis results show that MIP_Q precedes MIP and MIP_Q on handoff efficiency and the number of additional entities. MIP_Q can greatly reduce the mean cost of mobile communication and lead to a reasonable handoff delay. MIP_Q also has feasibility on implementation. Finally, the MIP_Qs simulation and implementation schemes are given out.


Market forces and prioritization policies have accelerated the take-up of basic insulation measures in less affluent homes. But, in the homes of affluent householders, those householders who as a group use the most energy and emit the most carbon dioxide, progress has been significantly slower. This paper illustrates the developing trends, which the Green Deal must reverse if emissions reduction targets are to be achieved.


Genetic correlations among traits alter evolutionary trajectories due to indirect selection. Pleiotropy, chance linkage, and selection can all lead to genetic correlations, but have different consequences for phenotypic evolution. We sought to assess the mechanisms contributing to correlations with size at maturity in the cyclic parthenogen Daphnia pulicaria. We selected on size in each of four populations that differ in the frequency of sex, and evaluated correlated responses in a life table. Size at advanced adulthood, reproductive output, and adult growth rate clearly showed greater responses in high-sex populations, with a similar pattern in neonate size and r. This pattern is expected only when trait correlations are favored by selection and the frequency of sex favors the creation and demographic expansion of highly fit clones. Juvenile growth and age at maturity did not diverge consistently. The inter-clutch interval appeared to respond more strongly in low-sex populations, but this was not statistically significant. Our data support the hypothesis that correlated selection is the strongest driver of genetic correlations, and suggest that in organisms with both sexual and asexual reproduction, adaptation can be enhanced by recombination.


Abstract Using quantitative data from school principals (SPs) and after-school  program directors (ASDs) in 37 primary schools and after-school programs  (ASPs) in Switzerland, this study examines the Perceived Professional  Culture of Collaboration (PPCoC) as an aspect of school culture and  professionalism of educational staff. The group comparisons confirm that  the ASDs and SPs significantly differ on how they rate the PPCoC, even if  they belong to the same school context. However, this study did not find  significant group differences on the goals which the two leaders associate  with the development of the ASP. Regression analyses indicate that having  written guidelines focused on collaboration is the strongest predictor of a  positive rating of the PPCoC for both leaders. PPCoC ratings for ASDs were  additionally linked to their individual goals towards ASPs. Finally, this study  points out that organizational attributes and individual goals are connected to the development of a shared attitude towards collaboration (PPCoC) as an important aspect of the quantity and quality of ASP development, as a  means to define the goals and professionalize ASP practice. Keywords: Professionalism, After-School Programs, Collaboration, Collective Attitudes, Organizational Development, School Culture ----- Bibl iography: Jutzi, Michelle/Schuepbach, Marianne/Frei, Lukas/Nieuwenboom, Wim/von Allmen, Benjamin: Pursuing a Common Goal: How School Principals and After-school Directors Perceive Professional Culture of Collaboration, IJREE, Vol. 4, Issue 1-2016, pp. 9-28. https://doi.org/10.3224/ijree.v4i1.24773


In this paper, a bajaj three wheeler was first analyzed and designed for similar vehicle requirements. Placement of vehicle components have been calculated and proposed. An automatic hybrid controller for the vehicle power management is also proposed. The preliminary design is simulated as a series hybrid fuel cell Li-ion battery vehicle model in PSAT software. Further a brief economic and environmental analysis has been done for the proposed vehicle by calculating the pay back period and using the GREET software respectively. This design can be implemented in the longer run on general vehicles; thus creating independence from fossil fuels.


The panoramic photography of Luc Courchesne introduces, within the conventions of traditional panoramic painting, formal and technical variations that significantly alter the aesthetic basis of the genre and require a new theoretics. Formally, in Courchesne's photographs a tension is created between the slightly distorted periphery of the image and the pictorial void created at its centre by the physical presence of the camera and its panoramic lens. This imbalance induces a barely perceptible experience of movement in place, a formal vertigo, that inwardly animates the image. This intensive, or virtual, movement within the fixed image, qualifies the photographs as interactive even in the absence of actual interaction, and can be thought of, in aesthetic continuity with Courchesne's truly interactive installations, as an emergent state of interactive experience.


Force sensors are used in many applications. The manufacturing of those sensors can take a long time and when the sensor breaks in some way it has to be sent back to the manufacturer. Nowadays more people own a 3D-printer which reduces both the manufacturing time and the repairing time. This report talks about both a 2DOF and 4DOF 3D-printed whisker inspired tactile sensor. The angle of the whisker has been computed as a function of the applied force. Combining the results of the angle measurements with the results of both the mechanical and electrical analysis it can be said that the 2DOF-sensor fits its underlying models. The average error per sample for the force is 0.1968 N, while the force is of by 0.0023Nm on average. It is assumed that the 2DOF-analysis can be used as basis for the 4DOF-analysis. The effects of increasing the number of DOF is investigated and theory suggest that all individual parameters are slightly reduced. Trying to prove this, both the angle and deflection are filmed and analysed. The data, however, does not show such a reduction. For the 4DOF there is much room for improvement.


As businesses continue to grow their dependence on the World Wide Web, it is increasingly vital for them to accurately measure and manage response time of their Web services. This dissertation shows that it is possible to determine the remote client perceived response time for Web transactions using only server-side techniques and that doing so is useful and essential for the management of latency based service level agreements.
First, we present Certes, a novel modeling algorithm, that accurately estimates connection establishment latencies as perceived by the remote clients, even in the presence of admission control drops. We present a non-linear optimization that models this effect and then we present an O(c) time and space online approximation algorithm. Second, we present ksniffer, an intelligent traffic monitor which accurately determines the pageview response times experienced by a remote client without any changes to existing systems or Web content. Novel algorithms for inferring the remote client perceived response time on a per pageview basis are presented which take into account network loss, RTT, and incomplete information. Third, we present Remote Latency-based Management (RLM), a system that controls the latencies experienced by the remote client by manipulating the packet traffic into and out of the Web server complex. RLM tracks the progress of each pageview download in real-time, as each embedded object is requested, making fine grained decisions on the processing of each request as it pertains to the overall pageview latency. RLM introduces fast SYN and SYN/ACID retransmission and embedded object rewrite and removal techniques to control the latency perceived by the remote client.
We have implemented these mechanisms in Linux and demonstrated their effectiveness across a wide-range of realistic workloads. Our experimental results demonstrate for the first time that server-side response time measurements can be done in real-time at giga-bit traffic rates to within 5This is an order of magnitude better than common application-level techniques run at the Web server. Our results also demonstrate for the first time how both the mean and the shape of the per pageview client perceived response time distribution can be dynamically controlled at the server complex.


This study was performed to test whether 17beta-estradiol could attenuate the blood-brain barrier disruption caused by middle cerebral artery occlusion in the ovariectomized rats. Rats aged twelve to fourteen weeks were used in this study. Their ovaries were removed one week prior to the implantation of the pellets. For the 17beta-estradiol group, a 500 microg 17beta-estradiol 21 day-release pellet was implanted and for the control group, a vehicle pellet was implanted 21 days before the experiments. One hour after middle cerebral artery occlusion under isoflurane anesthesia, the transfer coefficient of 14C-alpha-aminoisobutyric acid (104 Daltons) and the volume of 3H-dextran (70,000 Daltons) distribution were determined to represent the degree of blood-brain barrier disruption. Blood pressures and blood gases were similar between controls and 17beta-estradiol-treated rats. In both groups, the transfer coefficient of the ischemic cortex was higher than that of the corresponding contralateral cortex (control: Ischemic Cortex 12.5 +/- 5.9 microl/g/min, Contralateral Cortex 3.0 +/- 1.6, p < 0.001; 17beta-estradiol: Ischemic Cortex 6.7 +/- 3.3 micro l/g/min, Contralateral Cortex 2.2 +/- 0.9, p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in the transfer coefficient of the contralateral cortex between these two groups. However, the transfer coefficient of the Ischemic Cortex of the 17beta-estradiol-treated animals was 46 % lower than that of the control, vehicle-treated rats (p < 0.05). The increase of the volume of 3H-dextran distribution with middle cerebral artery occlusion was significant in the vehicle-treated rats (Ischemic Cortex: 6.4 +/- 2.7 ml/100 g, Contralateral Cortex: 3.8 +/- 0.8, p < 0.01) but not in the 17beta-estradiol-treated animals. Our data suggest that chronic 17beta-estradiol treatment was effective in reducing blood-brain barrier disruption during focal ischemia in the ovariectomized rats.


BACKGROUND
The prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal complaints in dentists is high and the past two decades have witnessed a sharp rise in the incidence of various disorders. The prevalence of musculoskeletal pain ranges between 64% and 93%. The most effected regions have been back and neck. Various studies have been done to record stress levels and health-related behaviors of dentists in other countries but limited data is available among the Indian dentists.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Therefore a questionnaire survey was carried out among 102 Indian dentists belonging to different fields having at least one musculoskeletal disorder in last 6 months.

RESULTS
The total sample consists of 80 males and 22 females. Out of the 102 over 97 of dentists had sought medical advice for these disorders during the previous 06 months and 74 of them also consulted the physiotherapist for exercises and ergonomic advice. The number of sessions taken for regular physical exercises was minimum 6 till 44 the most. The percentage of improvement in symptoms varied between 20% and 80%.

CONCLUSIONS
A significant direct correlation between the number of sessions taken for physical activity and the self-perceived improvement in the symptoms was found using the Pearson correlation test. The work-related musculoskeletal disorders among dentists not only decrease their efficiency but also is a major concern among them. Self-awareness and benefits of regular exercise is the need of the hour.


We have conducted a cohort study of users of omeprazole and H2 antagonists in Italy to investigate whether the peroral use of these drugs may be associated with an increased incidence of ocular disorders leading to loss of vision. We have used the Sistema Informativo Sanitario Regionale (SISR database) in Friuli‐Venezia‐Giulia to identify all subjects who received at least one prescription for cimetidine, famotidine, niperotidine, nizatidine, omeprazole, ranitidine or roxatidine between 1 January 1991 and 31 December 1994. We have identified all hospital admissions for serious vascular or inflammatory ocular disorders following any such prescription, reviewed and validated all medical records. There were 71,108 users of any of the study drugs, contributing a total of 101,827 person years of observation. Seven cases of serious eye disorders were identified, giving an annual incidence rate of 7/100,000 persons. By comparison to non‐users, the incidence rate ratio for current users of all of the study drugs together was 0, with a 95% confidence interval of 0 to 2·1. By comparison to non‐users, the incidence rate ratio for past users was 0·47 (95% CI: 0·06–2·4). Our data are consistent with previous studies and add weight to the general impression of the ocular safety of these drugs. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


Patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection exhibit a generalized, non-HIV-specific polyclonal B-cell activation resulting in hypergammaglobulinemia of all immunoglobulin isotypes as well as increased production of HIV-specific IgG and IgM. These immunoglobulins have the potential to be used as markers for monitoring the progression of HIV infection. With the inherent challenges of cost and convenience in the use of the conventional markers for HIV monitoring, that is, viral load and CD4+ count, there is the need to investigate the possible prognostic role of the above mentioned immunoglobulins in the management of HIV patients in Nigeria. The IgG, IgA and IgM profile as well as the CD4+ T cell count of forty HIV seropositive subjects was assayed before and after 3 months follow-up in a case series descriptive study. The Igs were measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), while CD4 count was done using flow cytometry. In the determination of concentration/value changes of parameters at baseline and follow up in HIV progression, only IgM, waist and hip circumference showed significant differences (p < 0.05) within the period under study. While in the determination of the effect of therapy on the subjects, significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed only in the values of CD4 count and BMI. While statistically significantly inverse relationship was observed between the CD4 counts and IgM concentrations, the values of IgG and IgA were inverse but not significant in relation to CD4 count. This study concluded that immunoglobulins (G, A and M) are not reliable in monitoring short term response to therapy unlike CD4 count although IgM has good diagnostic value like CD4 at baseline.

 Key words: HIV/AIDS, CD4+ count, viral load, antiretroviral, immunoglobulins.


Subspecialtying in ophthalmology in the United States is an unstructured elective experience. With the exception of one subspecialty society, there is no control or standardization of training programs or assessment of the capabilities of graduates. In 1987, 222 (46% ) of the 484 graduates of US residency training programs enrolled in fellowships. Approximately 85% of these positions were sponsored by departments, divisions, and other academic units of ophthalmology at an annual cost of approximately $8 million. In recognizing that fellowship education influences residency training programs, the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO) sponsored a conference on subspecialty fellowship training in Laguna Niguel, Calif, on Feb 7, 1988. In attendance were chairmen of departments and heads of academic units of ophthalmology, directors of residency training programs, representatives of subspecialty societies, preceptors of fellowship training programs, members of the board of directors and staff of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and foreign


In this document, we present the Technical Design Report of the Upgrade of the T2K Near Detector ND280. The goal of this upgrade is to improve the Near Detector performance to measure the neutrino interaction rate and to constrain the neutrino interaction cross-sections so that the uncertainty in the number of predicted events at Super-Kamiokande is reduced to about 4%. This will allow to improve the physics reach of the T2K-II project. This goal is achieved by modifying the upstream part of the detector, adding a new highly granular scintillator detector (Super-FGD), two new TPCs (High-Angle TPC) and six TOF planes. Details about the detector concepts, design and construction methods are presented, as well as a first look at the test-beam data taken in Summer 2018. An update of the physics studies is also presented.


In chronic experiments on rabbits, we demonstrated that electrolytic destruction of the dorsal amigdalofugal way - stria terminalis results in intense depression of the integral electrical activity of the hippocampus. Morphological changes in neurons and satellite glial cells, such as lysis of the Nissl substance, hyperchromatosis, and wrinkling of the cells after destruction of the stria terminalis, were proof of the correctness of our conclusion. It is postulated that one of the main factors underlying the generalized effects observed in our experiments is probably the disturbance of functional characteristics of the hypothalamo- hypophyseal neurosecretory system induced by destruction of the amygdalofugal connections; this disturbance results in significant pathological shifts of metabolism in the hippocampus.


Atopic dermatitis is an allergic inflammatory skin disease that is characterized by late eczematous skin lesions which result from non-IgE-mediated immune responses. It is well known that food allergy is an important cause of atopic dermatitis. Moreover, with recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of food allergy, it becomes possible to elucidate the role of IgE- and non-IgE-mediated food allergies. Interprerations for blood eosinophil counts and total serum IgE levels are updated based on the immunopathogenesis of AD relating with these IgE- and non-IgE-mediated food allergies. The clinical significances of skin prick test and allergen-specific IgE are re-evaluated according to the out-to in and in-to out sensitization. Atopic march is reconsturcted by the sequential sensitization of foods and aeroallergens. In this review, the revized immunopathogenesis and relevant interpretations of food allergy in atopic dermatitis are described for the evaluation of precise clinical status of AD.


A vacuum-purge gas nitriding furnace was modified to develop a process and a furnace enhancement to produce a controlled in situ oxide layer on the surfaces of steel parts using various oxidation techniques. The process is an effective alternative to conventional grit blasting of materials as a means of surface preparation for uniform and consistent nitriding results. Pre-oxidation is known to enhance receptivity of steel part surfaces to the effects of nitriding, and in situ oxidation is inherently efficient and economical. Topics discussed include the type of oxidizing carrier used in the furnace, practical methods used to control the oxidation, and a gas delivery system developed to inject gases with an elevated dew point for the purpose of providing a controlled oxidizing atmosphere. Comparative tests with other activation techniques, and results with no activation, will be discussed along with approaches to technical process difficulties encountered.


For centuries, multiple medical risks of heavy alcohol drinking have been evident with simultaneous awareness of a less harmful or sensible drinking limit. The increased risks of heavy drinking, defined as three or more standard‐sized drinks per day, are both cardiovascular (CV) and non‐CV. The CV risks include the following: (i) alcoholic cardiomyopathy (ACM), (ii) systemic hypertension, (iii) atrial arrhythmias, (iv) haemorrhagic stroke and, probably, ischaemic stroke. By contrast, modern epidemiological studies have shown lower morbidity and mortality amongst light–moderate drinkers, due mostly to a reduced risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), with contributions from ischaemic stroke and heart failure (HF). A low level of alcohol drinking has no clear relation to increased risk of any CV condition, except for haemorrhagic stroke. There is good evidence that supports the existence of mechanisms by which alcohol might protect against CAD, but the mechanisms for other alcohol–CV associations remain unclear. Interrelationships amongst the CV conditions affect the individual alcohol–disease relationships; for example, lower CAD risk in light–moderate drinkers is to a large extent responsible for the reduced HF risk. International comparison data plus the presence of proposed beneficial nonalcohol components in wine (particularly in red wine) suggest that this beverage type might afford extra CAD protection. However, the effect of beverage choice is confounded by a healthier drinking pattern and more favourable risk traits in wine drinkers. Debate persists about methodological and public health issues related to the epidemiology of alcohol‐related CV disease.


This paper presents the use of wavelet-based wavenumber filtering for damage detection and thickness estimation with Laser-scanning sensing. A piezoelectric transducer provides an excitation at a fixed, single frequency to a structure. Laser Doppler Vibrometer (LDV) with a mirror-tilting device measures subsequent steadystate structural responses, resulting in the full standing wavefield of the structure at the excitation frequency. After then, wavelet-based wavenumber filtering is performed to obtain dominant wavenumber components, which could be used for indicative of structural damage. Mapping processes based on the dominant wavelet-based wavenumber is carried out for damaged area visualization. To estimate the depth of damages, Lamb wave equation is transformed into the wavenumber-thickness equation with the known structural parameters. With this process, the thickness and the thickness reduction by corrosion was accurately identified. Several experiments are performed on thin walled structures, including pipes and plates, with different types of damage, including corrosion and cracks. The experimental investigation into quantitative assessment of welded joints are also performed. The results show that the techniques are very effective in damage size and depth estimation with improved speed.


Passion fruit is an important horticultural crop in Kenya where it is grown widely by small scale farmers primarily as a source of income. The fruits are supplied to the local and export markets where they are consumed as fresh fruit for its nutritive value or utilized for commercial processing purposes. Passion fruit is a good source of flavanoids that have important medicinal value. Presently, demand for the fruit greatly exceeds supply; and this trend is project to persist in future, especially due to the emergence of new large scale producers of beverages using locally available fruits, among the passion fruit. The downward trend of passion fruit production which has brought the industry to a near collapse is mainly attributed to pests and diseases. A number of fungal diseases have been identified as the major constraints to production. These include Fusarium wilt and a recently emerged but highly severe disease attributed to a complex involving Phytopthora species. Compared to Fusarium wilt, the die back disease is rather poorly understood. Since the disease is fairly new in the major passion fruit production areas in Kenya, no effective management strategies have been developed as yet. Preliminary research is yet to conclusively determine whether the disease is caused by a single or multiple organisms, though some reports suggest it is a complex caused by several pathological organisms, possibly involving viruses l and Proceedings of the 3rd International e-Conference on Agricultural BioSciences 2010 Page: 68 – 69; Abstract ID: IeCAB010-330a http://www.e-conference.elewa.org/agriculture. 69 fungi. This proposed research will aim to generate data to fill the existing knowledge gaps and thus contribute to the development of effective control methods. Field studies will be carried out in the major passion fruit growing areas in Central and Eastern provinces of Kenya in Meru, Embu and Thika districts. Disease incidence and severity will be recorded and infected plant samples will be collected for isolation and identification of the causal organism(s) in the laboratory. Several trials will be carried out under controlled environment to establish pathogenicity of the isolated organisms on healthy passion fruit plants. A combination of disease control methods will be investigated. The data generated will contribute to improved understanding and more effective management of the dieback and other diseases threatening the Kenyan passion fruit industry.


Thioredoxins (Trxs) f and m, as well as their targets chloroplast fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) and NADP+-malate dehydrogenase (NADP-MDH), displayed transcriptional expression in both photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic organs of pea plants (Pisum sativum L. cv. Lincoln) grown for 50 d under normal irradiance. However, whereas Trx m and both target enzymes were poorly expressed in non-photosynthetic tissues, the content of the precursor form of the Trx f-specific mRNA was high in pea roots. In contrast, the translational expression of Trx f was low in this organ. The high FBPase activity in immature seeds, and the low activity of leaves, must be related to high starch synthesis in the first, and with high sucrose formation in the second. The transcriptional expression of FBPase and NADP+-MDH, and to a lesser extent that of Trxs f and m, was inhibited under low irradiance in plants grown under both normal and high temperatures. Pea plants grown at low temperature displayed a high level of mRNAs for Trxs and their targets, especially when the growth was carried out at low light. To a lesser extent, similar behaviour was observed at the protein level. Chloroplasts of mesophyll leaf cells of pea plants grown under saturating light, or under sub-saturating continuous irradiance, showed broken envelopes, distorted structural elements and disorganized starch grains, as a consequence of a photobleaching process and high starch accumulation.


Shiftwork has the potential for altering food intake patterns in ways that may be unfavorable to health. In two industrial plants in the Australian state of Victoria where food had to be brought from home or purchased on the job, the effect of shiftwork on food sources as well as the energy density of food items was assessed. In the steel plant, employees on the afternoon shift had relatively more principal eating occasions on the job than did day or night shift workers. The canteen did not cater adequately for the meal needs of employees, who used the vending machines to a greater extent when on the afternoon shift than on other shifts. In the aluminum plant, workers who depended on food from home alone ate relatively less energy-dense foods than did workers who included canteen foods in their diets. Use of lower-energy density items was greater on the day shift than on the afternoon shift, and in turn was greater on that shift than for the night shift. After a one-year nutrition education program, the use of lower-energy density items increased on the day and night shifts. Thus, it was found that food usage could be influenced not only by shiftwork, but also by the food facility available on site and by a nutrition education program.


The Balkans drew the attention of the Trade Union International, founded as a separate institution
in 1901 under social-democratic dominance and led by the German Carl Legien. It
organised essential support for the development of the Balkan trade unions. At the same
time, it tried to mediate in the conflicts which shook the Bulgarian workers' movement, with
repercussions all over the Balkans. The consequences of the First World War led to the transformation
of these organisational conflicts into political ones when the communist Red International
of Labour Unions was founded. A bitter struggle was waged within the Balkan
trade union movement which further undermined its weak position. The reconstruction of
the intervention by the two trade union internationals not only shows the organisational consequences
and the mutual interdependencies, but also highlights the difficulties of the 'gaze
from afar', from the centre of the European labour movement, onto such an 'exotic region'.


This study deals with the psychometric
properties and derivation of norms for an Arabic version of the
Overexcitability Questionnaire-Two, OEQII. The standardization sample consisted
of 289 students (159 males, 130 females) ranging from 15-17 years in age. Factor analysis and one-way ANOVA reveals a good
construct, factorial, and discriminatory validity. The Cronbach-a formula was used to estimate internal
consistency coefficients. All the results indicate acceptable reliability for
the OEQII. The Overexcitabilities scores were distributed normally in terms of
the age range. And the Deviation for the Overexcitabilities degrees and
percentiles were calculated for each group of the sample. Finally, results indicated
no statistical difference at (α=0.05) among males and females students in the
total scale, the female tended to do better in the overall average of the OEQII andin Sensual and in Emotional Overexcitability: Overall, the OEQII appears to have acceptable
psychometric characteristics allowing for use instrument to promote the use of
strength-based learning activities to enhance instructional practice and
personal improvement.


Heterogeneous photocatalytic oxidation allows the oxidation of airborne volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into carbon dioxide and water in the presence of a semiconductor catalyst and UV light source. Titanium dioxide (TiO2), due to its chemical stability, non-toxicity and low cost represents one of the most efficient photocatalyst. However, only the ultraviolet fraction of the solar irradiation is active in the photoexcitation processes using pure TiO2 and although, TiO2 can treat a wide range of VOCs, the effectiveness of the process for pollution abatement is still low. A more effective and efficient catalyst therefore must be formulated. Doping TiO2 with metal ions was considered with the aim of improving TiO2 photocatalytic properties. In this study transparent TiO2 thin films were prepared using the sol-gel and dip-coating method. Various ratios of doped TiO2 thin films were also prepared using Cr3+, Fe3+, Cu2+, Ni2+, Co2+, Zn2+, Mn2+ and Ag+ ions. The photoactivity of the catalyst was evaluated by the photodegradation of VOCs, conducted in a home built glass reactor. Photocatalytic oxidation of benzene using various ratios of metaldoped TiO2 showed an optimum dopant to metal ion ratio that indicates the dependency of TiO2 photocatalytic reactivity on dopant concentration. Photocatalytic oxidation of benzene, toluene, m-xylene, acetone and tetrachloroethylene was conducted using the catalyst with the optimum ratio. It was observed that the photoactivity of doped TiO2 substantially depends on the type and concentration of dopant and VOCs. Dopants affect the photoreactivity of TiO2 by acting either as electron/hole trap or electron-hole recombination center. High photocatalytic degradation of all the VOCs was observed with pure TiO2. However adding Fe3+ and Ag+ into TiO2 increased the photodegradation of benzene and acetone while Zn2+ in toluene and m-xylene degradation. Dopants such as Cr3+, Co2+, Cu2+, Ni2+ and Mn2+ decreased the photoreactivity of TiO2 in the photodegradation of all VOCs under studied. Dopants have no effect in TeCE degradation. However, TeCE shows highest degradation compared to the non-chlorinated hydrocarbon. This observation was attributed to the participation of chlorine radical, which induced a chain reaction mechanism. Preliminary studies on the mineralization of VOCs showed that CO2 was formed during the photooxidation process using pure or doped photocatalyst. The formation of new compounds, however, was not detected. The experimental ratio of VOCs degraded against the amount of CO2 formed showed that the photodegradation of VOCs is a partial oxidation process. Structural and optical properties of the thin films were characterized using XRD, SEM/EDAX, XPS, UV-Vis and PL spectroscopy. All thin films showed primarily the anatase phase. However, the presence of rutile in doped TiO2 contributed to the reduced photoreactivity of TiO2. Surface species such as Ti4+, surface hydroxyl and physically adsorbed water increased the photoreactivity of TiO2 but Ti3+ reduced its activity. Dopants such as Zn2+, Mn2+ and Ag+ shift the absorption edge of TiO2 into the visible region indicating the possibility of photocatalytic process using visible light


This study set out to explore the use of the Internet in peer-to-peer learning environments within vocational education and training and to investigate whether this approach could replace traditional teaching and learning. A mixed methods design, including classroom observations, design experiments, interviews and questionnaires was adopted. Although this study represents a mid-term report on work in progress only, a number of observations can nevertheless be made about the process of conducting research within Further Education (FE) colleges. Whilst, traditionally, the pursuit of research is not a priority within FE colleges, this study has encouraged lecturers in Highbury College, Portsmouth, United Kingdom to trial a research-based approach to curriculum development. They have worked as co-researchers in the study from the conceptual phase to implementation. This paper outlines the process of conducting research in partnership with Business lecturers at Highbury College. It presents preliminary findings based on the researcher and lecturers' reflections on the research methodology and process followed over a period of 9 months. Keywords: Emergent learning; FE Colleges; SOLE; vocational education and training (Published: 28 August 2014) Citation: Research in Learning Technology 2014, 22 : 24614 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/rlt.v22.24614


There is increasing awareness that our health and the environment in which we live are closely linked. This report compiles evidence on the relationship between health and a selected list of environmental factors including 'natural' features (such as temperature and ultraviolet radiation) and aspects of our surroundings which have been created by humans (such as housing and transport). The results of this compilation highlight that: our surroundings can influence our physical health and mental wellbeing through a variety of channels; health and wellbeing may be affected in both positive and negative ways; humans, through their intervention in the environment, can play a vital role in exacerbating or reducing health risks. As the pathways involved can be indirect and complex, this report also examines some of the difficulties involved in assessing the broader relationship between health and the environment. Image: Mink / flickr


As globalization has increased in the past few years, many companies attempts to made appropriate strategic decision to meet with this challenge. The problem under study mainly focuses on minimizing overall make-span but additional objectives such as balancing the assembly line and minimizing the variation of completion time are also considered. Due to the complexity of problem solving procedure by mathematical techniques, this paper presents a new approach of hybrid GA-SA implementation in order to meet the problem objectives. A proposed hybrid GA-SA is executed to overcome the problem complexity and meet the problem objectives. In order to check the efficiency of hybrid search techniques, a comparison is done between the results obtained by hybrid GA-SA and simple GA and the results comparison validates the effectiveness of presented hybrid search techniques.


Composite polymeric human insulin loaded microparticles were prepared using triple emulsion solvent evaporation technique with 1% PVA as a stabilizer and 0.1% w/v hydrophilic chitosan in the external aqueous phase, PLGA in internal organic phase and 4-6% w/v Eudragit in external organic phase. The mean diameter of the microparticles was in the range of 1-6 μm. Higher amount of Eudragit polymer provided the maximum drug encapsulation. IVR profile showed that Eudragit L 100 particles have more initial burst release (19.75%) in1 hr. in and % cumulative release (85.15%) in PBS pH 6.8 than Eudragit S 100 particles showing initial burst release (10.31%) in1 hr.and % cumulative release (74.56%). Eudragit L 100: Eudragit S 100 (1:1) particles at pH 6.8 throughout 12 hr. showed more initial burst release (18.45%) in1 hr.and % cumulative release (84.14%) than Eudragit L 100 : Eudragit S 100 (1:1) particles at pH 6.8 in first 1 hr. and remaining 11 hr. at pH 7.4. Eudragit L 100 : Eudragit S 100 (1:1) particles at pH 7.4 throughout 12 hr. showed less initial burst release (10.66%) in 1 hr. and % cumulative release (78.94%). IR spectra suggest the entrapment of insulin in composite polymeric microparticles. CD spectra suggesting maintenance of secondary structure of insulin. SDSPAGE confirmed that the structural integrity of the drug was maintained during encapsulation. Stability studies results showed that insulin loaded particles stored at 4⁰C were more stable than particles stored at 25 ⁰C and at -20 ⁰C. In-vitro caco-2 cell line studies show that % viability was more for particles than pure insulin solution. TEER values of caco-2 cell monolayer was found to be more for particles at pH 6.8 than particles at pH 7.4.


The engagement of membrane-bound Igs (mIgs) results in growth arrest, accompanied by apoptosis, in the WEHI-231 murine B lymphoma cells, a cell line model representative of primary immature B cells. Inhibitor of differentiation (Id) proteins, members of the helix-loop-helix protein family, functions in proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis in a variety of cell types. In this study, we analyzed the involvement of Id protein in mIg-induced growth arrest and apoptosis in WEHI-231 cells. Following stimulation with anti-IgM, expression of Id3 was up-regulated at both the mRNA and protein levels; this up-regulation could be reversed by CD40L treatment. Retrovirus-mediated transduction of the Id3 gene into WEHI-231 cells resulted in an accumulation of the cells in G1 phase, but did not induce apoptosis. E box-binding activity decreased in response to anti-IgM administration, but increased after stimulation with either CD40L alone or anti-IgM plus CD40L, suggesting that E box-binding activity correlates with cell cycle progression. WEHI-231 cells overexpressing Id3 accumulated in G1 phase, which was accompanied by reduced levels of cyclin D2, cyclin E, and cyclin A, and a reciprocal up-regulation of p27Kip1. Both the helix-loop-helix and the C-terminal regions of Id3 were required for growth-suppressive activity. These data suggest that Id3 mimics mIg-mediated G1 arrest in WEHI-231 cells.


This paper presents the mathematical modeling of flapping flight inch-size micro aerial vehicles (MAVs), namely micromechanical flying insects (MFIs). The target robotic insects are electromechanical devices propelled by a pair of independent flapping wings to achieve sustained autonomous flight, thereby mimicking real insects. In this paper, we describe the system dynamic models which include several elements that are substantially different from those present in fixed or rotary wing MAVs. These models include the wing-thorax dynamics, the flapping flight aerodynamics at a low Reynolds number regime, the body dynamics, and the biomimetic sensory system consisting of ocelli, halteres, magnetic compass, and optical flow sensors. The mathematical models are developed based on biological principles, analytical models, and experimental data. They are presented in the Virtual Insect Flight Simulator (VIFS) and are integrated together to give a realistic simulation for MFI and insect flight. VIFS is a software tool intended for modeling flapping flight mechanisms and for testing and evaluating the performance of different flight control algorithms


Straight back syndrome (SBS) is a deformed thoracic spine disease sometimes considered as a pseudo-heart disease because its pathology can prominently affect the normal function of the heart system. SBS patients often present with signs and symptoms that are similar to some cardiac diseases that hide those of the thoracic spine. 1,2 Consequently, SBS has become the one of the most common misleading conditions in cardiology. Investigations for SBS are frequently performed in patients with an abnormal systolic murmur with no evidence of any cardiac-related cause. This article will detail the importance of the straight back syndrome in diagnostic cardiology and demonstrate a case with Magnetic Resonance Imaging.


Since aircraft design is tending toward all-metal construction, the strong heat-treatable light aluminum alloy, duralumin (a generic name for a class of heat-treatable alloys containing Cu, Mg, Mn, and Si), is finding increasing application. Doubt has been expressed concerning the reliability and permanence of these materials. Information is given on the effect of corrosion on the tensile properties of 14-gauge sheet duralumin, heat treated by quenching in hot water after being heated for 15 minutes in a fused nitrate bath at 500 to 510 C. Intercrystalline corrosion and practical aspects of intercrystalline embrittlement are discussed with respect to duralumin.


Cultural evolution has historically concentrated on questions of the long term evolution of human culture and on questions of gene-culture co-evolution. However, cultural evolution is a dynamic process that very much operates in recent and ongoing change in human societies. Over the last two centuries, most of the world has been in the midst of an ongoing process often called modernization. Cultural evolutionists conjecture that the transformation of social networks caused by mass mobility is a basic driver of modernization. Networks become less kin dense as people move from traditional villages to towns and cities. As a consequence, support for the family as an institution weakened and competing institutions, such as business firms, attracted more support. Gradually, individual rights come to trump family duties in the legal and ethical domains. Lesley Newson and I tested this hypothesis at the national scale by examining the relationship of many variables to years since the demographic transition began, a good index of the beginning of modernization. A goodly fraction of the contemporary cultural variation in the world appears to be attributable to stage of the country in the modernizing process. In ongoing work, Christian Cordes, Georg Schwesinger, and I have developed models of firms based on the idea that work values transmitted within firms are an important determinant of firm behavior. In small entrepreneurial firms, the founding leaders of the organization play an important role socializing workers. If these firms grow, these individuals' influence is diluted and firms face growth crises that can be resolved by developing more formalized management systems or by the spin-off of new entrepreneurial firms. The business environment determines which path an evolving industry takes. The models reflect stylized facts about industry evolution described by students of business organizations.